The island was probably first inhabited about 15 centuries ago, settled by fishermen from the Malay Peninsula and Southern China. It appears on Chinese maps dating back to 1687, under the name Pulo Cornam. The name Samui is mysterious in itself. Perhaps it is an extension of the name of one of the native trees, mui, or from the Malay word Saboey, meaning "safe haven"[citation needed]. Ko is the Thai word for "island".
Until the late 20th century, Ko Samui was an isolated self-sufficient community, having little connection with the mainland of Thailand.[citation needed] The island was even without roads until the early 1970s, and the 15 km journey from one side of the island to the other could involve a whole-day trek through the mountainous central jungles.
Ko Samui is based primarily on a successful tourist industry, as well as exports of coconut and rubber.
Whilst the island presents an unspoiled image to the public perception, economic growth has brought not only prosperity, but changes to the island's environment and culture, a source of conflict between local residents and migrants from other parts of Thailand and other countries. Reflecting Samui's growth as a tourist destination, the Cunard ship MS Queen Victoria (a 2000-plus passenger ship) docked at Samui during its 2008 world cruise.

Al’s Hut Hotel, Samui is on magnificent Chaweng beach, which is an attractive place for water activities. There is a restaurant and bar on the beachfront, which...
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Chaweng Bay View Resort, Samui is to the north of Chaweng beach. Just 5 minutes drive away from the nightlife and shops. Villas are spacious and individually furnished...
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Samui First House is located at the south of Chaweng beach, a 10 minute walk from Chaweng’s main tourist area. The smaller and more quiet Lamai beach is 20 minutes drive...
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